Amalfi or Cilento

If you dream of the Amalfi Coast but don’t want to get caught up in the crowds and high prices of tourist hotspots like Positano and Amalfi, then Cilento is the place for you. Indeed, from this quiet, authentic area you can make great day trips to the famous Amalfi Coast – without exhausting your bank account and your patience.

Peace and quiet in Cilento

Cilento is a hidden gem, a lot less known than its glamorous neighbour. Here you won’t find hordes of tourists, but picturesque villages, rugged nature and a relaxed atmosphere. You can wake up quietly in the morning, enjoy an espresso with mountain views, and only then decide whether to head for the coast that day.
Accommodations in Cilento tend to be small-scale and welcoming, with a more personal touch. Think agritourisms where you eat fresh produce from their own gardens, or cosy eco lodges in the middle of greenery. And all at a much friendlier price than on the Amalfi Coast itself.

Explore Amalfi without the stress

From Cilento, you drive to famous spots such as Positano, Amalfi or Ravello in about 1.5 to 2 hours. A road trip along the coast is an adventure in itself anyway, with spectacular views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. But you can also take the train to Salerno and catch a ferry there – that way you avoid the narrow, busy roads along the coast.
The big advantage? You have the freedom to explore Amalfi at your pace. Stroll the alleys, eat a gelato by the water, and when you’ve had enough of the hustle and bustle, return to the tranquillity of Cilento.

See more than just Amalfi

Cilento itself has plenty to offer, by the way. Visit the impressive Greek temples of Paestum, explore the caves of Castelcivita, or hike through the Cilento National Park. And don’t forget the local cuisine – Cilento is the cradle of the Mediterranean diet. Fresh fish, homemade pasta and local wine taste just that little bit better when you know they come from the region.
Tip: Want a real hidden gem? Visit Baia degli Infreschi, a beautiful, secluded bay that you can only reach by boat or after a nice walk. Or have dinner at ‘La Cantina del Marchese’ in Marina di Camerota, where the owner welcomes you as if you were family – and the seafood pasta there is legendary.

The best of both worlds

In short: staying in Cilento and visiting the Amalfi Coast from there is actually a win-win. You benefit from the tranquillity, affordable accommodation and authentic atmosphere of Cilento, while easily taking in the iconic coastal spots. That way, you make the most of your holiday – without the hassle.
So, what will it be? An overpriced hotel in Amalfi, or a laid-back, authentic base in Cilento? The choice is actually easy to make.